In plain words
Induction of labor means starting contractions on purpose, rather than waiting for labor to begin on its own. A clinician may use a medicine that softens the cervix, a small balloon placed in the cervix, or a hormone drip that strengthens contractions. is used for medical reasons, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a pregnancy that has passed its due date. It is also used when the water breaks and labor does not start. In some pregnancy losses, and in terminations for medical reasons, labor is the chosen way to deliver. The process can take many hours, and it may take more than one day. Not every induction ends in a vaginal birth. Some end in a , and the outcome depends on the reason for induction and on the cervix.
The deeper version
Induction of labor is the artificial initiation of uterine contractions before spontaneous onset. uses analogues or transcervical balloon catheters, followed by if needed. Indications include , diabetes, , prolonged pregnancy, and ruptured membranes without labor. ACOG and SMFM, in their 2014 consensus on preventing primary cesarean, advise against elective delivery before 39 weeks. ACOG Practice Bulletin 228 (2021) sets out criteria. The ARRIVE trial (Grobman and colleagues, New England Journal of Medicine, 2018) found a lower cesarean rate with induction at 39 weeks in low-risk women. Controversy remains about timing and about cesarean risk in prolonged induction.
Where it comes up
- Planning a cesareanGetting Ready for Birth
- Writing a birth plan that actually helpsGetting Ready for Birth
- When your water breaksGetting Ready for Birth
What mothers here say about induction of labor
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Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine — Obstetric Care Consensus No. 1: Safe Prevention of the Primary Cesarean Delivery, 2014
- Grobman WA et al. — Induction versus expectant management in low-risk nulliparous women (ARRIVE trial). New England Journal of Medicine, 2018